2012 - its the end of the world! (or...year)

Super cute celebration from Theo and Gibbs. Source: Tumblr

Perfect end to the year.

A great morale boost for the end of the season.

We may not have leapfrogged anyone up the table, but it was a positive ending to the year and positive for all the players.

Theo in particular was of course a standout.  His hattrick was incredible. His last goal in particular was great, even though it could have been a penalty. It was a beautiful goal! He has truly grown into a mature player, and was excellent playing up front. He is fast, and his skill was Henry-like against Newcastle.  Last season a lot of people were writing him off, apart from Wenger and RvP...who always stood by him and said Walcott was invaluable to the team. Even though he-who-must-not-be-named is gone, Walcott is still here and would be a massive loss if he leaves the club. He needs to sign a new contract.

Santi Cazorla, Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta had a quiet day in the midfield, but were still setting the pace and providing the metronome and rhythm for how the game was to progress.  This was not as good in the first half, but they fell into a rapport in the second half, especially towards the end. I am loving this midfield combination more and more every time they play together.

Our defense was the real low point. At the beginning of the season I thought that Bould had tightened up the defense and we had a lot of clean sheets, but now it is a bit dodgy.  I think Arsenal missed the influence of Per Mertesaker (get well soon, BFG), and Vermaelen is having an inconsistent season. A new years resolution is definitely to improve and solidify our defense.

As a gooner, I was flipping my lid during this game. It was ridiculously exciting. My lucky number is 7, so I was so excited. Perfect end to the year.

Bring on 2013 and the rest of the season! :D

xoxo Gooner Girl

ps. How funny was Wenger and his zipper? Classic.